When A Code Blue Declared And Where To Go In Salem

By: Michelle Jones, Follow South Jersey Correspondent

SALEM, N.J. — With sustained below-freezing temperatures just on the horizon, counties across South Jersey will begin alerting residents to a Code Blue.

The First Baptist Church of Salem is a Code Blue warming center. Photo credit: First Baptist Church of Salem Facebook page.

Code Blue is a declaration, made by individual counties within the state, which notifies the residents of inclement weather that poses a threat to unsheltered individuals. 

If the temperatures drop below 35 degrees with precipitation, or below 32 degrees without precipitation a Code Blue is called. Once a Code Blue is called, local outlets will notify the public that warming centers will be open to house those who need shelter from the extreme temperatures.

To find out if a Code Blue Declaration has been called in your county you can call 211, go to https://nj211.org/njcodeblue or if you are looking specifically for Salem County you can go to https://codebluesalem.org or https://www.facebook.com/FirstBaptistChurchSalemNJ

These resources offer all of the information needed for individuals to make informed decisions during these cold winter months.

Individuals using these resources will be given locations and times of warming center operations.  The warming center for Salem County is First Baptist Church of Salem. 

According to Codebluesalem.org:

Warming Center Information

  • The Warming Center is open from 6:00pm – 6:00am on Code Blue nights.
  • The Warming Center address is 130 W. Broadway, Salem, New Jersey 08079
  • If there are no guests by 9:00pm, then the warming center will close.
  • You MUST be residents of Salem County to be eligible for Code Blue services.
  • If available,  you receive transportation to the warming center by the Salem Police Department.
  • Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a volunteer, checked in and provided a cot, sleeping area, and offered dinner and other resources as needed.
  • In the morning, guests are offered hygiene kits, breakfast, and a bus if available. 
  • If you refuse to comply with expectations, you may be asked to leave the Warming Center.
  • If necessary, police may be called for immediate assistance when necessary.

Residents are asked to pass this information along to those who are in need of assistance. It is the goal of all Code Blue warming centers to offer warmth and safety to those who need it. 

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